Der Einsatzleben-Podcast · Hermann Zengeler

Feuerwehr und Verantwortung...

·22 min·2 clips

Hermann Zengeler recalls his group leader telling him he must take responsibility as a new fireman, sparking his lifelong struggle with the concept.

In episode 322 of Der Einsatzleben-Podcast, host Hermann Zengeler delves into the theme of responsibility within firefighting and aid organizations. He opens by recalling his early days as a fireman, when his group leader insisted he must take responsibility, a concept he initially resisted. Zengeler discusses the etymology of responsibility, linking it to being answerable for one's actions. He shares a personal story where he was held responsible for a firefighter's death because of his role in training and equipment, despite not being on the scene. The host explains that responsibility starts from the first moment a member joins an operational department. He argues that if children are not taught responsibility early, it becomes an obstacle in adult life, affecting personal, professional, and organizational roles. Zengeler notes that many people avoid responsibility due to fear, while others struggle to delegate it because of control issues. He provides practical advice, suggesting listeners start small by taking on tasks like hose management and setting goals. The episode also touches on legal aspects, such as insurance liabilities in emergency actions like breaking doors during rescues. Zengeler mentions that mental fitness is often overlooked in safety regulations. He describes symptoms of poor responsibility management, like work overload and bottleneck phenomena. The host encourages accepting one's limitations and seeking support from peers. He concludes by advocating for celebration when responsibility is successfully handled, emphasizing that both taking and giving responsibility can be learned through patience and communication.

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